Spring in Italy

As we slowly recover from the Easter festivities and over-indulgence of Easter eggs. Spring is unfolding in Italy with celebrations, festivals and optimism which comes with the season of growth and new beginnings. The temperatures are slowly rising and the countryside is filled with fruit blossom and the chance to venture out and about a little more.

This time of year the sagras and festas reflect the season of new beginnings, new tastes and flavours. Many local towns hold a sagra of the Carciofi (Artichoke) as the growing season hits its peak. You will often find locals selling their crop from the roadsides or see the vegetable shops stacked high with the silvery green vegetable. Keep your eyes peeled in the Lazio region for Sagras and smaller local celebrations throughout Italy offering delicacies and delicious tasting menus.

From the 7th to the 10th of April Verona hosts ‘Vinitaly’ a wine fair which supports and promotes Italian wine production. This private fair is stage to the wines of Italy and where they fit in the worldwide spectrum of vinification. There are also guided tours around the vineyards of the local area, coupled with wine tastings.

From the 9th to the 14th April, the capital of fashion, Milan, will be holding ‘Design week’, which first began its life as a furniture show and now has grown to embrace the innovative world of design of every type. From the trendiest companies to young fresh designers; the whole city is host to events the main events being held at the SaloneUfficio Milan Fairgrounds, Rho.

Naples is the centre of attention from the 16th to 21st April, for the America’s Cup World Series in 2013, a spectacular sailing event which will showcase the city through this thrilling sporting activity. Napoli is a natural home to sailing, both historically and today it is inseparable from the sea.

Happy Birthday to Rome on the 21st April. Rome was founded in 753 BC so if you’re in Rome, watch out for festivals, concerts, and special events. There’s usually a fireworks display over the Tiber River and gladiator shows around the forum area.

April is also host to la Festa della Liberazione (Liberation day) In Italy, April 25, 1945 was the day when the Allied troops finally liberated Italy – and today, it commemorates not just that liberation but also is a date when Italians honor their fallen soldiers.

In particular, Liberation Day is a day on which to honor the fallen partisans of the Italian Resistance who fought the Nazis as well as Mussolini’s troops throughout World War II.

Wherever you find yourself in Italy this Spring, take a little time to slow down, drink in the culture and enjoy the riches the country has to offer.